The Big E with Kids: A Family Guide to the Eastern States Exposition
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The Big E is enormous — 17 days, a million-plus visitors, and grounds that stretch across dozens of acres. That's thrilling if you're an adult with a plan. It can be overwhelming if you're five years old and it's loud and there are too many people and you dropped your cream puff.
A Big E trip with kids can be one of the best family outings of the year — but it takes a little more planning than a solo visit. Here's how to make it work.
What Kids Love at the Big E
The midway. The Big E has one of the largest fair midways in New England, with rides ranging from gentle kiddie rides to full-scale thrill rides for older kids and teens. Kiddie rides are grouped together in a dedicated section, making it easy to stay in one area with younger children.
The animals. The livestock barns are genuinely fascinating for kids — dairy cattle, draft horses, sheep, goats, pigs, and rabbits all on display, many being shown by 4-H and FFA youth who are happy to talk about their animals. The petting areas are always a hit with younger kids.
The daily parade. The Big E opens each day with a parade at 10:30 a.m. featuring marching bands, floats, draft horses, and livestock. It's festive, it's free with admission, and kids love it. Get there a few minutes early to claim a good viewing spot.
The food. Cotton candy, cream puffs, corn dogs — fair food is exciting for kids. Letting them pick one special treat is part of the experience.
The Avenue of States. Older kids enjoy walking through the state buildings, especially sampling food from each state. It's educational in a way that doesn't feel like school.
When to Go with Kids
Weekdays are the answer. A Wednesday at the Big E is a fundamentally different experience than a Saturday. Shorter lines, less crowding, easier parking, and a more relaxed pace that's far better for families with young children.
Go early. Gates typically open in the morning, and the first few hours are the calmest. The parade at 10:30 a.m. is a natural starting point. By mid-afternoon, the crowds build and kids start running out of steam.
Plan to leave before meltdown. With young kids, four to five hours is a solid Big E visit. Trying to push through a full day often ends badly. If your kids are older, you can extend into the evening for midway rides after dark.
Practical Tips for Families
Bring a stroller for kids under 4. The grounds are large and the walking adds up fast. A stroller gives little legs a rest and gives you a place to stash bags and jackets.
Set a ride budget. Individual ride tickets add up quickly. Ride wristbands (if available) are a better deal for kids who want to ride more than a few times. Check the Big E website for current pricing.
Dress in layers. September mornings can be cool, afternoons warm, and evenings cool again. A hoodie or light jacket that ties around the waist keeps everyone comfortable.
Designate a meeting spot. For families with older kids or teens who might split off, pick a recognizable landmark — the clock tower, a specific state building, or the main gate — as a regrouping point.
Take a photo of your kids at the entrance. Note what they're wearing. If anyone gets separated in the crowd, having a current photo is immediately helpful. The Big E has a lost child area staffed by security.
Pack snacks and water. Fair food is great, but it's expensive and heavy. Having your own water and a few granola bars means you're not buying a $6 lemonade every hour.
Budget for extras. Between admission, parking, rides, food, and one or two games, a Big E trip with kids can add up. Set a budget before you go so there aren't surprised discussions in front of the ring toss booth.
Best Order of Operations
Here's a suggested flow for a family Big E day:
- Arrive early, park, and head to the main entrance
- Watch the parade at 10:30 a.m.
- Walk the Avenue of States while the crowds are still light — sample some food for an early lunch
- Visit the livestock barns — the animals are active in the morning
- Hit the midway in the early afternoon when the rides are operating and the kids are still energized
- Grab cream puffs as your afternoon treat
- Head home before the evening rush (or stay for the lights if your kids have the stamina)
For the full visitor's guide, check out our guide to the Big E in 2026.
Last updated: April 2026